We present a clear overview of who was considered the best player at different times.Since the first FIFA ceremony in 1991, the award became a reference for global football.

German Lothar Matthaus opened the historic list by winning in London. A few years later, in 1996, Brazilian Ronaldo Phenomenon became the youngest to win the trophy, at just 20 years old.

Over the years, the sport has evolved and has come to evaluate talent by technical criteria and by collective titles. This introductory section prepares you for a detailed list of athletes who have marked generations and influenced clubs and selections.

The evolution of the award of the best players in the world

Since its inception, the individual distinction in football has undergone important changes.The original format valued the opinion of coaches and captains, with votes weighted at 5, 3 and 1 point for those chosen.

In 1992, Marco van Basten already illustrated the historical relevance of the list, showing how recognition came from performance and technical prestige.The presence of legendary names helped to consolidate the credibility of the award.

Voting criteria

The system sought consensus among peers and experts.Coaches and captains had decisive weight, and the scoring logic made the choice more transparent.

Unification with the Ballon d'’Or

In 2009, FIFA joined its award to the traditional Ballon d'’Or of France Football, expanding the reach and prestige. This merger lasted until 2016, when FIFA summarized its own ceremony with The Best.

The achievement of an expression title, such as the World Cup, often weighed on the final decision. Thus, the award has always reflected both individual brilliance and collective results over the years.

The era of the great idols of world football

The era of the great idols brought names that changed the way of seeing the game. Pele became a global symbol by scoring more than a thousand goals and winning three Cups, consolidating itself as a reference of technique and goals.

Diego Maradona shone brightly in 1986, with dribbling and ball control that to this day inspire debates about who was the best player of that generation.

In Europe, Real Madrid of the 1950s, with Alfredo Di Stefano, dominated five continental editions. This club also served as a stage for several stars and helped define the list of legends of the continent.

Johan Cruyff tactically revolutionized with “Total Football”, while George Best left his mark on English football for talent and charisma. Many of these icons won the Golden Ball or equivalent awards, repeating victories at different times and consolidating legacies.

The domain of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo

The rivalry between two stars has redefined standards of excellence in modern football.For more than a decade, they have alternated awards and record-breaking, staying at the top year after year.

Records and longevity at the top

La Masia graduate Lionel Messi has amassed goals and assists that have changed the way he plays.His technique and creative vision have secured several Golden Ball over the seasons.

Cristiano Ronaldo, an icon who shone brightly at Real Madrid, became the top scorer of the Champions League and international football.The success at Real Madrid turned club titles into platforms for individual consecration.

This dispute influenced any list of best player of the period.The dedication and consistency of both created a new standard for future talent.

The impact of Brazilians in the history of the award

Brazilian presence in the list of winners has left deep marks in global football.Names such as Ronaldo Fenomeno and Ronaldinho have changed the perception of talent and style.

The pioneering spirit of Ronaldo Phenomenon

Ronaldo was elected the best player at a young age in 1996, at only 20 years old. His speed and technique made him a reference and paved the way for other Brazilians.

The magic of Ronaldinho

In 2004, Ronaldinho won even without winning an official title that year.His creativity proved that individual brilliance also weighs in the choices of the award.

Return to top with Vini Jr

Vini Jr., featured prominently at Real Madrid, broke a fast and brought Brazil back to the prize in 2024. Before him, Kaka was the last Brazilian champion in 2007.

Brazil has nine trophies on the list and has maintained influence at different times.Between Ball Gold and FIFA votes, Brazilian athletes have always been among the most remembered.

The rise of new talent and the current scenario

The current scenario reveals a new generation ready to compete at the top of football.

In recent years, athletes like Robert Lewandowski have proven quality by winning in 2020 and 2021. Luka Modric, in 2018, showed that it is possible to break historical hegemonies.

Real Madrid continues to attract young promises that dream of the individual title.These talents seek club performance and selection to appear on the list of finalists each year.

Aitana Bonmati symbolizes the expansion of the award in women’s football, expanding the reach of the awards. Legends such as Van Basten and achievements in the World Cup still inspire the race for the trophy.

While lionel messi and cristiano ronaldo remain references, the dispute has become more open.Each season brings together new names ready to take the leading position in the world.

Conclusion

From the lawn to the trophies, the trajectory of the stars reveals the constant evolution of football.

The search for the best player moves fans and highlights clubs like Real Madrid in decisive moments.

Awards such as the gold ball and FIFA awards have shown the importance of recognizing talent within a collective context.

Each player listed here contributed to the sport becoming a global phenomenon and inspiring millions.

The legacy lives on: new generations observe references and aspire to be the best player in the world. Thus, the story of the game continues to be written by those who play with technique and passion.